Divorce can be a very messy affair and can take years to finalize if you aren’t prepared to take some steps to simplify the process. These 5 steps will help you make the process much easier, eliminate some of the stress and even save you some money at the end of the day.

Step 1 – Pre-divorce Preparation

Consult a lawyer and/or a counselor or therapist to make sure that you are ready for a divorce and where you stand should you decide to dissolve the marriage. Also gather all your documentation like the your marriage certificate, an antenuptial agreement and anything else that may be affected by the divorce. It may also be a good idea to have all deeds and titles for property and assets for the lawyer to evaluate.

Step 2 – Understand The Process

Divorce is a process and it is not just a simple matter of standing in front of a judge and having the marriage dissolved. It consists of completing the necessary paper work, having the papers served on your spouse, submitting the paperwork to the court, waiting for a court date and then appearing in court.

Before the court appearance it is recommended to agree on how assets and liabilities will be split as well as other issues such as alimony, child custody, support and visitation and any other issues that may arise. The court will decide in accordance with the law regarding any issues where the parties could not come to an agreement.

Step 3 – Emotional Preparation

No matter how difficult it may be, it is best to put your emotions aside and be as objective as possible during the divorce proceedings. Put thoughts of vengeance aside and deal with the matters at hand in a factual and rational manner. If you are unable to compromise or keep your emotions out of the mediation process, it is best to follow the advice from your lawyer and let them do the talking for you.

Step 4 – Stand Tough

Just because it is beneficial to be as objective as possible in order to simplify your divorce, it is just as important to stand tough and fight for what you deserve. Make sure that you choose a lawyer who is professional yet will always have your back and fight to ensure that you get a fair settlement in the divorce. If you spouse has legal representation, contests the divorce or disputes any of the issues involved in the divorce, it is absolutely essential to have a lawyer.

Step 5 – Prioritize

What is the priority for you in getting your divorce? Do you just want the marriage to be over or do you want the house and the car and future income? Or is getting custody and support for the children your main concern? Prioritize your needs and let the other issues go.